All About The LOC: The Liquid, Oil, Cream Method

Have you heard about the LOC method? No, it doesn’t stand for “local”...we’re talking about the wash-and-go system for tight curls that’s been evangelized by women with natural hair for whom dryness is a big concern. Since natural hair can be more prone to dryness and breakage than other hair types, any method that promises to retain moisture for days is going to get a lot of buzz. Here’s why so many women with natural hair swear by the LOC method for keeping their curls hydrated, bouncy, and frizz-free...

What is the LOC Method?

LOC stands for liquid (or leave-in conditioner), oil, cream—which, helpfully, is also the order in which to layer these products if you’re trying the LOC method at home. Both the products themselves and the three-step application process are why the LOC method is such an effective way to help your curls retain the maximum amount of moisture. You’ll apply your hydrating liquid, seal it in with oil, then seal it again with cream for a one-two punch against dryness that lasts until your next wash. 

Who came up with the LOC Method?

The LOC method was developed by Alikay Naturals founder & CEO Rochelle Graham-Campbell. 

Who is the Liquid, Oil, Cream Method for?

Anyone with dry natural hair that is curly, coily, or kinky—highly porous hair types that tend to be more prone to dryness than other textures.

How does it work?

The first layer of moisture—liquid—is the foundation for well-hydrated curls. Oil prevents water from escaping the hair shaft, sealing in moisture. Cream seals again, styles, and defines. You want as much moisture as possible to remain on the hair shaft, so your curls won’t dry out and look frizzy—hence doubling up on oil and cream.

Step by Step Instructions to try the LOC Method at home

Step 1

Start with wet hair—or, if you hair has dried, spray all over with water to re-wet. Then, choose your liquid—ideally a detangler, mist, or water-based leave-in conditioner for a big dose of hydration. Evenly apply from roots to ends. Be sure to fully saturate the ends of your hair, which will be drier than your roots.

Note: if your hair is thick, textured, or very dry, really slather on your liquid of choice. If you’re worried about weighing your hair down, simply use less product.

Step 2

Now you’re ready to apply your oil. You can use any type of hair oil from your beauty supplier or even your grocery store—argan oil, jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, castor oil, coconut oil or olive oil. The key is to use much less oil than liquid, since you don’t want your hair to look greasy. We recommend adding small amounts of oil to small sections of hair, then adding more if you feel like your hair needs it.

Note: If you know your hair likes silicone-based products, you can swap out oil for a hair serum.

Step 3

The last step is to apply a curl-defining cream—we like Let’s Bounce™, which contains coconut oil and aloe for extra nourishment—or a buttery moisturizing cream to each section of hair. Layering on your cream further prevents moisture loss, plus helps define your curls, keeping them bouncy and frizz-free.

You can repeat the LOC method whenever you wash your hair, whether that’s every few days or once a week.

Do you L-O-V-E the LOC? We want to hear your thoughts in the comments.